This paper presents an overview of general design guidelines for acceptable indoor conditions related to HVAC systems in hospital operating rooms (ORs). The material was prepared for the Hellenic Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs in the framework of a European project. The work also included an audit of 20 ORs at 10 hospitals covering a wide range of construction dates, ownership, type, and condition of their HVAC and lighting installations. The information focused on the predominant indoor physical parameters and the electromechanical installations in the ORs. A parallel campaign using a personnel questionnaire, collected data from 560 medical personnel working in the ORs on the assessment of the indoor conditions. The objectives were (1) to identify existing problems, (2) recommend actions for improving the existing conditions to meet the health and safety requirements set by regulations and standards, and (3) improve the working conditions.

Units: SI